The truth about trail running is that you don’t have to run
the entire time...
(at least for us Mortals….)
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| Not running here... Just stopped to take a jumping selfie |
Let me explain…
Many times when I’m out on a trail “RUN” my run looks more
like a slow shuffle up the trail. My Strava even auto-pauses while I’m moving
because I’m going so slow. This does not embarrass me, It’s the reality. If I
run the whole time I would probably fall off the edge of the trail and end up
hurt at the bottom of the ravine somewhere. So between sight seeing, enjoying
the mountains and sometimes just terrain that is too steep to run… I walk.
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| My Dog Trapper |
The fall is a beautiful time to be in the mountains. Colors
are changing, the air is crisp and sometimes there is even a touch of snow to
make the mountains really pop in the background.
The adventures are endless in the fall in the Mountains.
It’s still great camping, backpacking, hiking and trail running weather…most
days. Trail running is my preferred activity this time of year. 1 hour or 6
hours in the mountains is my favorite time of day. The smell of damp pine,
silence except for my footstep, and the time alone with my pups.
I’ll tell you a secret about trail running… on the uphill’s,
there is just as much or even more walking then running.
So many people tell me they are scared to try trail running
because they aren’t the best or strongest or fastest runners. To these people I
say… then trail running is perfect for you.
When I’m alone in the mountains I run as much or as little
as I want. Some days I push myself and run steep sections, and others I walk
and enjoy just being outside.
There is no one judging your pace, speed or how many miles
you cover. Trail running is about being outside. And the longer the run, the more I walk. Amazing
how that works out. I run the flats, not-so-steep uphill sections and the downhill’s.
I walk the steep sections.
Sounds like something you want to get involved with. Here is my advice
Step 1: Go to your local running store and get fitted with a
great Pair or Trail specific shoes. The extra plate on the sole and the increased
tread will help you feel confident on varied terrain
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| what I really want to do when I get to the top |
(I wear
Topo Atletic MT-2 Trail shoes and love them. They are a specific fit, so try them
on first)
Step 2: Use the Internet to find good trails in your area.
The Internet is an amazing resource… it has lot of information… check it out!
Step 3: Join a local trail running group. Most group runs
are ALL abilities. And honestly people are just excited to see newbies out
there giving it a try.
(Run Wild
Missoula locally, but most areas have some running group)
Step 4: Go on your first Run! Just enjoy being outside and off roads, and
away from traffic. So as fast or slow as
your desire. Just remember that if you are new to this, you may be sore the
next day. Your using a lot of new muscle, don’t worry, this is normal.
Step 5: Bring some kind of fuel on runs longer then 1 hour,
and always have a protein drink of some sort after your workout (chocolate milk
is fine.. no need to fancy products).
Step 6: Go out and enjoy a beer and tell everyone how
awesome your Trail run was.
Happy Trails
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| Summit of Stuart peak 9/23/16 |
